Description

We are seeking an experienced and strategic Lead People Relations Specialist to join our Corporate Business Services HR team.  This role will serve as a key partner and advisor in managing complex employee relations matters, supporting senior leaders, and driving a culture of fairness, respect, and compliance. 

The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 8 years of experience in employee relations, investigations, and conflict resolution, with a strong track record of supporting executive level leaders and navigating sensitive workplace issues. 

This is a hybrid role based in Reston, VA, and requires regular in-office presence of at least two days per week. 

Key Responsibilities: 

Serve as the lead advisor on employee relations matters across the Corporate Business Services organization, providing expert consultation and support to senior leaders, managers, and employees. 

Conduct thorough, timely, and impartial internal investigations in response to employee concerns, complaints, or alleged policy violations.  

Interpret and apply HR policies, procedures, and employment laws to ensure consistency and mitigate risk. 

Provide coaching and guidance to managers on performance management, corrective action, workplace conflict, and employee engagement strategies.  

Analyze employee relations trends and develop proactive strategies with HRBPs and the broader People Relations Team to address root causes and enhance the employee experience. 

Manage the accommodation process in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), including facilitating the interactive process and maintaining compliant documentation. 

Collaborate closely with HRBPs, the broader People Relations Team,  Legal, Compliance, and other internal partners to ensure aligned and appropriate resolution of issues. 

Support involuntary terminations, reductions in force, and other sensitive employee transitions. 

Draft and review employee relations documentation (e.g., warnings, separation letters, investigation summaries) for clarity, accuracy, and compliance. 

Contribute to policy development, training initiatives, and continuous improvement efforts. 

Maintain accurate documentation and case tracking within HR systems. 

Uphold confidentiality, ethics, and integrity in all interactions and case handling. 

Promote ICF’s core values and a culture of respect, integrity, and accountability.  

Performs other duties as assigned or deemed necessary. 

Basic Qualifications: 

8+ years of progressive HR experience with a focus on employee relations, investigations, and conflict resolution.  

Demonstrated success advising and coaching senior level leaders, to include C Suite leaders, on complex and high-risk people matters. 

Strong understanding of federal and state employment laws and HR best practices. 

Experience working in a fast paced, and highly collaborative environment. 

Preferred Qualifications: 

Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources, Business, or a related field; advanced degree or certification (e.g., SHRM-CP, PHR/SPHR) preferred. 

Experience supporting corporate functions such as Finance, Legal, and Human Resources. 

Proficiency in Workday or similar HRIS, as well as Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint). 

Experience interpreting HR analytics and using data to inform decisions. 

Strong project management and training development skills. 

Professional Competencies: 

Exceptional judgment and discretion in handling sensitive employee matters. 

Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to influence at all levels. 

Strong collaboration skills and the ability to partner effectively across functions. 

Solutions oriented mindset with a level of integrity and professionalism. 

Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic and deadline-driven environment.  

 

Working at ICF

ICF is a global advisory and technology services provider, but we’re not your typical consultants. We combine unmatched expertise with cutting-edge technology to help clients solve their most complex challenges, navigate change, and shape the future.

We can only solve the world's toughest challenges by building a workplace that allows everyone to thrive. We are an equal opportunity employer. Together, our employees are empowered to share their expertise and collaborate with others to achieve personal and professional goals. For more information, please read our EEO policy.

 

Reasonable Accommodations are available, including, but not limited to, for disabled veterans, individuals with disabilities, and individuals with sincerely held religious beliefs, in all phases of the application and employment process. To request an accommodation, please email Candidateaccommodation@icf.com and we will be happy to assist. All information you provide will be kept confidential and will be used only to the extent required to provide needed reasonable accommodations.  

Read more about workplace discrimination rights or our benefit offerings which are included in the Transparency in (Benefits) Coverage Act. 

 

Candidate AI Usage Policy

At ICF, we are committed to ensuring a fair interview process for all candidates based on their own skills and knowledge. As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools to generate or assist with responses during interviews (whether in-person or virtual) is not permitted. This policy is in place to maintain the integrity and authenticity of the interview process.  

However, we understand that some candidates may require accommodation that involves the use of AI. If such an accommodation is needed, candidates are instructed to contact us in advance at candidateaccommodation@icf.com. We are dedicated to providing the necessary support to ensure that all candidates have an equal opportunity to succeed.  

 

Pay Range - There are multiple factors that are considered in determining final pay for a position, including, but not limited to, relevant work experience, skills, certifications and competencies that align to the specified role, geographic location, education and certifications as well as contract provisions regarding labor categories that are specific to the position.

The pay range for this position based on full-time employment is:

$107,469.00 - $182,697.00

Reston, VA (VA30)